13-year-old prodigy Christopher Atherton becomes youngest player to play a first-team game in the UK

Currently in year 9 of secondary school, Christopher Atherton etched his name in footballing folklore as he became the youngest player to feature in a first-team game in the UK footballing circuit.Atherton was brought on as a substitute inNorthern Irish semi-pro outfit Glenavon's 6-0 thrashing ofDollingstown recently.

Atherton came on as a late replacement forJack Malone in the 75th minute to mark his debutat Mourneview Park. His player-managerGary Hamilton chose to let him on the pitch at the age of13 years and 329 days old.

The decision eventually paid dividends as Atherton managed to bolster his team's charge againstDollingstown by recording an assist with what marked his first touch on the ball after making his way onto the pitch.The 13-year-old helped set the shot up forMatthew Snood forGlenavon's sixth and final goal.

Glenavon FC subsequently took to social media to commemorate their young star's achievements.

"Tonight, Glenavon Academy player Christopher Atherton made his first team debut against Dollingstown in the League Cup. At 13yrs and 329days old, he became the youngest player in the UK to play in a first-class match. Congratulations Christo!!Also, not to mention, his first touch of the ball tonight was an assist! What an amazing debut!!"

With his efforts forGlenavon, Atherton broke a record that had stood resolute for a whopping 42 years.

The previous record was set byEamon Collins at the age of14 and 323 days during an Anglo-Scottish Cupgame against Kilmarnock while sporting the colours of Blackpool way back in September 1980. His appearance againstKilmarnock marked his only outing for the club.